Government Shutdown Puts Dental Education and Grants in Limbo
The federal government shutdown could disrupt key United States Department of Education functions that affect dental programs and students. While student aid and loan payments will continue, the furlough of nearly 90% of department employees threatens to slow funding pipelines critical to dental schools and underserved communities.
As the government shutdown extends into its fourth week, the United States Department of Education faces major disruptions that could ripple through dental education and workforce development. Nearly 90% of department staff have been furloughed, halting civil rights investigations and new federal grants: two areas that often impact dental and hygiene programs in public universities. Although student loan payments and federal aid disbursements will continue, administrative slowdowns could affect schools dependent on Title I or Impact Aid funding, as well as new grants that support underserved populations and research. With the White House warning of possible additional layoffs, even routine operations may be delayed, straining students and institutions alike. As dentistry is already grappling with workforce shortages and rising education costs, the shutdown underscores how dependent dental education remains on stable federal support. Click here to read more.
